The first-ever report of its kind standardizes test methods for the global nonwovens industry

CARY, N.C. — May 12, 2005 — With the ambitious goal of harmonizing test methods worldwide for an increasingly global industry, INDA and EDANA, the two largest nonwovens association in the world, have published the groundbreaking “Worldwide Strategic Partners: Standard Test Methods 2005.”

Available in June, the report is the culmination of more than eight years of work between INDA, Association of the Nonwoven Fabrics Industry, Cary, N.C., and EDANA, the European Nonwovens Association, based in Brussels, Belgium. It is the first combined edition of U.S. and European test methods for nonwovens and engineered fabrics ever published.

“INDA and EDANA both published their own book of standard test methods, and in the past most of these methods were different — different procedures and surely different units of measure,” points out Cos Camelio, Technical Director at INDA. “This difference created headaches for suppliers and customers alike, and even between different international locations of the same company.”

About a year ago both associations agreed to publish one edition of standards under the common logo of “Worldwide Strategic Partners.” The plan was to include all standards under this heading, creating options if there are two standards that are measuring the same parameter.

“This puts all our standards under one umbrella (WSP methods) and makes it easier for both supplier and customer to agree on a method to measure their product,” Camelio adds. “The harmonization process will continue and our goal is to have common standard tests wherever possible.”

The 750-page Standard Test Methods 2005 Report contains more than 80 harmonized test methods on virtually every aspect of nonwovens and engineered fabrics. It is available for $695 for INDA and EDANA members; $995 for non-members. Licenses can also be purchased for multi-site operations.